Liam Lawson has candidly opened up about his "fear and pressure"-filled Formula 1 debut at the 2023 Dutch Grand Prix. His reflection comes as he enjoys a strong 2025 season, aiming for a historic points streak.
Why it matters
Lawson's journey from a chaotic last-minute debut to consistent top-ten finishes highlights the resilience required in F1. His ability to adapt and perform under pressure is a testament to his growth, positioning him for a significant career milestone.
The big picture
Two years ago, Lawson was thrust into the Dutch GP due to Daniel Ricciardo's injury, starting without practice in a rain-soaked race. Despite the tough circumstances, he impressed in a five-race stint, scoring two points. In 2025, after starting with Red Bull Racing and a subsequent move to Racing Bulls, he has stabilized his performance, now consistently challenging for points.
The details
- "Fear and Pressure": Lawson recalls his debut as "a very tough weekend," dominated by "fear and pressure." He admitted not enjoying the "so chaotic" conditions, seeing it as "very much survival."
- Brief Respite: He found a rhythm for about 20 laps during a dry spell, which he "enjoyed," before rain returned and the race was red-flagged.
- 2025 Season Turnaround: After an initial struggle following his demotion from Red Bull Racing to Racing Bulls, his form improved significantly. He scored his first points in Monaco, followed by three more top-ten finishes, including consecutive points in Belgium and Hungary.
What's next
A points finish this weekend would make Lawson the first New Zealand driver since Denny Hulme in 1972 to score in three consecutive Grands Prix, underscoring his rising trajectory in F1.